When I first started teaching I was a hard core rock chick when it came to playlists including healthy doses of the Pixies, Led Zeppelin, Foo Fighters and The Beatles. In my “real life” that is still who I am but over time my students started asking me to pick music more current and popular.

“Blech!” was my original thought but after attempting a few different radio stations online that play what the kids dig these days I have found to my amazement I really love pop music. P!nk is incredible and Maroon 5 writes some fun tunes. Hell—I even started liking The Pussycat Dolls! What the heck has happened to me?

Anyhoo, today’s ride starts with Bruno Mars’ new song which is about as poppy as it gets and features a few old school rock and roll tunes that I love as well. You’re welcome!

Locked Out of Heaven:Bruno Mars

This is one of those songs that is too damn catchy for words. I wind up singing along whenever it is on the radio and might have to get more of his stuff soon.

San Francisco: The Mowgli’s

I know nothing about this band or why so many people are singing at once and I don’t care. It’s just a fun tune and I dig it.

Radioactive:Kings of Leon

Yes, this is the rock portion.

Timeless:The Airborne Toxic Event

This song has “high school graduation anthem” written ALL over it. (In a good way, of course.) The lead singer is adorable by the way!

Undercover (Of the Night): The Rolling Stones

Apparently this video could only be played late at night on MTV because it was too violent so don’t say I didn’t warn you first!

Voices in My Head:The Police

The drummer, Stewart Copeland, is super hot.

Back it Up: Caro Emerland

My new favorite song—love it so much!

Free:Phish

“Where are my hippies at?!”

Panic Switch:Silversun Pickups

The Silversun Pickups are too awesome for words.

Diane Young:Vampire Weekend

To be totally honest—I can’t decide if this is their best or worst song. (But it is zippy!)

Bad: U2

I use this one when I want my class to go a long a looooooong climb. Back in the day Bono would reach into the audience toward the end of the tune and pull a woman out of the audience. (To dance with her only! I think.)

Moves Like Jagger:Maroon 5

I want to hate this but I just can’t. Twist my arm Maroon 5—you’ve got me!

Hard Sun:Eddie Vedder

I still think Eddie Vedder is adorable—sigh.

So what do you think of my list? Remember to send me your favorite tunes in the comments below.